2026-2027 Course Catalog
Criminal Justice, AAS
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 Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
The Criminal Justice program prepares students for a career in such areas as law enforcement, corrections, and homeland security. All students must complete the basic Criminal Justice requirements, then select other Criminal Justice classes in areas of primary interest.
NOTE: Students who have a criminal background can take classes, but employment opportunities in the Criminal Justice field may be limited, depending on the circumstances and agency hiring standards. A criminal background is required for an internship and may impact a student's eligibility with certain agencies. Any questions or concerns should be addressed with the Criminal Justice Chair or Faculty.
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Locations: Ankeny, Online
Students may start this program any semester
Program Graduation Requirements
To earn a Criminal Justice AAS degree, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Option 1 - Select 1 Credit
Option 2 Courses
Students are strongly encouraged to speak with a full-time Criminal Justice Instructor about which option courses and AAS Core courses to take. Total Credits Required to Complete this Award - 64
Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change. Varied Costs
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Semester 4 | | Books (approximate) | 250 | 250 | 250 | 250 | Approximate total cost for the program: 14,760**
**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.
What Kind of Work Will You Do?
- Assist people in need
- Participate in community relations activities
- Patrol residential, business and rural areas
- Investigate allegations of criminal activity
- Process crime scenes and collect evidence
- Document all investigative steps in written format
- Participate in various court proceedings
- Assist judges, attorneys, and victim advocates
- Supervise arrested individuals
- Monitor adjudicated juveniles and convicted offenders
- Protect national security interests
- Establish Loss Prevention programs
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
- Perform well under stress
- Reasoning and common sense
- Curiosity and problem solving
- Determination and accuracy
- Detail orientated and meticulous nature
What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?
- Individual character, good moral and ethical values, and integrity beyond reproach are critical attributes for the student aspiring to a career in criminal justice. Students who have a criminal background may take classes, but employment opportunities in the Criminal Justice field could be limited, depending on the circumstances and agency hiring standards.
- An internship is required for this degree, and a criminal background may impact a student’s eligibility with certain agencies.
- Depending on the criminal justice agency, there may be physical requirements and/or physical fitness requirements for specific positions.
- It is in your best interest to research the position(s) and agency (or agencies) in which you are interested in seeking future employment with, as well as an internship opportunity, and become familiar with the required and desired qualifications.
Program Competencies
- Evaluate ethical issues related to criminal justice
- Examine the core criminal justice areas of law enforcement, law and the courts, and corrections
- Produce effective communication, verbally and in writing, using appropriate references and technologies
- Apply critical thinking skills to criminal justice system issues
- Demonstrate the ability to work with others in a professional, respectful and constructive environment
Competencies revised date
AY2026 Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026) |
Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
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